Irish Soda Bread with Raisins Recipe: A Twist on Tradition

Regarding traditional Irish cuisine, few things are as iconic as a loaf of freshly baked Irish soda bread. And while the classic version is delicious in its simplicity, adding raisins to the mix takes it to a whole new level of flavor.

This Irish soda bread with raisins recipe combines the signature texture and tangy taste of soda bread with the sweetness of juicy raisins, making for a mouthwatering treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Whether you serve it alongside a hearty stew, slathered with butter and jam for breakfast, or enjoy it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

So, grab your apron and get ready to experience the warmth and comfort of Irish hospitality with this delightful recipe.

Does Irish Soda Bread Contain Raisins?

Raisins are usually not found in Irish soda bread. It has, however, become a tradition unto itself.

“Irish soda bread” generally refers to a sweet white bread made with eggs and butter and studded with raisins and caraway seeds — the “soda” refers to the baking soda (or “bread soda” in Ireland) used to leaven it rather than yeast and kneading.

How to Make the Irish Soda Bread with Raisins?

This is a fairly easy recipe to follow. Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make the soda bread.

Ingredients

• 3 cups of white flour
• One teaspoon of baking powder
• One teaspoon of baking soda
• One teaspoon of cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Two tablespoons of sugar
• Two tablespoons of shortening or butter
• One 12-ounce box of raisins (or half box of dark raisins and half box of golden raisins)
• One egg
• 2 cups of buttermilk

Directions

• Use a preheated oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
• Prepare a large mixing bowl by mixing the dry ingredients.
• Stir in the buttermilk, shortening, and egg.
• Add the raisins and stir well.
• Put the batter in a well-greased 8″ by 8″ pan or cast iron skillet.
• Bake for one hour. It should be golden brown on top and fully cooked in the middle.

Tips To Make Irish Soda Bread With Raisins

While this is a quick bread to make, it does take an hour to bake. Here are some pieces of advice to make the process as smooth as possible.

• Prepare your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, stir them together with a wooden spoon.
• Create a hole in the center of the flour mixture. Pour the liquid ingredients (eggs, buttermilk, butter, or shortening) into that small hole.
• Add raisins after the mixture is completely mixed.
• The dough for Irish soda bread will be slightly sticky and wet. You do not have to shape the soft dough. Place the mixture in a well-greased oven-safe dish, Dutch oven, or cast-iron skillet.
• Allow it to cool for 10 minutes in the pan after it is done. Afterward, please remove it from the oven and cover it with a clean tea towel to cool. Lay it out on a cooling rack to cool.
• After that, you can slice the bread with a shark knife while it is still warm. Enjoy the best Irish soda bread ever made with juicy raisins!

You can wrap leftover bread in aluminum foil or plastic wrap if there are any leftovers. Learn how to store your Irish soda bread batter if you can’t bake it immediately.

What Makes Irish Soda Bread Taste Different?

There are only a few basic ingredients in Irish soda bread, which sets it apart from other types of quick bread. In contrast with traditional yeast recipes, these recipes use baking soda instead of regular yeast, which allows for a quicker rise and lighter texture.

Additionally, Irish soda bread contains flour, butter, buttermilk, currants, and raisins for added sweetness. Irish bakers and others have treasured the simplicity of the ingredient combination for generations.

How To Eat Irish Soda Bread With Raisins?

The Irish soda bread originated in the Emerald Isle. It has been used in Irish baking for centuries and is often associated with Christmas and Easter. The easiest way to enjoy this delicious bread is to slice it into thick pieces and top it with delicious butter!

It’s great with tea or soup, but it can also be eaten on its own. Shepard’s Pie is a great accompaniment to it. You can also have it for breakfast!

A touch of honey makes it extra sweet, while the cheese adds an extra layer of creamy goodness. Your taste buds will appreciate this Irish soda bread with raisins however you eat it.

What Do You Eat with Irish Soda Bread?

There is no particular way how to serve Irish soda bread. A warm slice of this bread is best enjoyed with butter, jam, or room temperature marmalade. You can also eat it with stews or soups to give it a hearty taste.

What Is Special About Irish Soda Bread?

Soda bread’s unique texture results from the reaction between acidic sour milk and baking soda, which form small bubbles of carbon dioxide.

Irish soda bread with raisins appeals to many people for many reasons. To begin with, it has an attractive tangy taste that combines soda bread and raisins, creating a balanced flavor profile.

In addition, Irish soda bread with raisins is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. With butter and jam, it can be served as a delicious breakfast or for lunch with a bowl of soup.

It can be just fine as a standalone snack but pairs well with a hearty stew. A cultural significance to Irish soda bread with raisins makes it so beloved.

Irish families have passed down this tradition of bread through generations. It is an engaging way to connect with Irish heritage and traditions, so it isn’t just a tasty treat but a meaningful one as well.

Can You Freeze Irish Soda Bread?

I doubt you will have any leftovers of this delicious bread, but you can freeze it for later use. Check out all the details on freezing and reheating Irish soda bread.

Why Is Irish Soda Bread Called Spotted Dog?

The basic soda bread recipe varies by region – even though purists would say the dough should not be modified.

Traditionally, caraway seeds were added to bread in Donegal. When raisins or dried fruit were luxuries in earlier times, a fistful of them, or perhaps even sugar or eggs — if they were available — were commonly added to white flour bread during harvest time as a treat for the men working.

Spotted Dog is a type of soda bread that includes raisins, caraway, orange zest, and other ingredients not found in traditional varieties.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a tasty and easy-to-make bread recipe that captures the essence of Irish cuisine, the Irish soda bread with raisins recipe is a great choice.

Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and can be adapted to your liking. With its unique texture and taste, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, if you want to experience the authentic taste of Irish soda bread with raisins, try this recipe today and savor the flavors of Ireland in every bite!